Which PhD program should I choose?

[ranma]

Without getting into specifics, I need some advice. I am an American and I got accepted to two PhD programs but one is in the US and the other is in East Asia. The problem is that although my training up to this point has been interdisciplinary social sciences (Masters), I have been trying to focus more towards Anthropology as my research deals with another country in East Asian region. The US school is another "interdisciplinary program" at a "Public Ivy" school, while the other is traditional Anthropology a major university in East Asia (in English). Also, funding at the US school has yet to be confirmed as I am on the "top of the list", while money is guaranteed at the school in Asia. I am concerned about being able to be considered an Anthropologist in the future and finding teaching job in the field.

Any advice? Please help soon as the schools need answers soon!

 

[satricion]

Hmm.

Well first of all I don't think you should worry too much about being able to 'market' yourself as an anthropologist after you finish your phd. Ultimately it depends on who your supervisors are, but more importantly where you position your work and what journals you publish your work in.

So you should go to the school with the best supervisor, because that will have an impact on your work.

In your position, if the schools are equally good I would go to Asia. You get the experience of studying overseas, you get your 'traditional Anthropology' (although as I've said I don't think that's important) and it's funded.